Mason Ng, at the age of 29, defied odds to become the youngest and first Southeast Asian to clinch the prestigious Best Sommelier of Asia & Oceania award. His journey to the top, marked by relentless dedication and hard work, is a story of passion transcending talent.
The Road to Victory: Ng’s ascension in the world of wine began with his role at Park90 Group in Singapore. His victory in Tokyo in 2022, where he outshined 23 contenders from 12 countries, was the culmination of years of unwavering effort. His success in the competition, organized by the International Association of Sommeliers (ASI), was built on his ability to navigate challenges beyond wine, including coffee bean identification and beer tasting.
Early Beginnings: Ng’s wine journey started in 2014 at La Strada, part of Singapore’s Les Amis Group. Despite forgoing a scholarship in accounting and finance, he found his true calling in the world of wine. His rapid progress saw him become the youngest in Singapore to pass the Certified Sommelier Examination at 19.
Career Milestones: Ng’s career trajectory took him from La Strada to the flagship Les Amis Restaurant and later to Atlas Bar. His tenure at Park90 wine bar, known for its selection of high-rated wines, was a pivotal point. In 2019, he not only won the Best Sommelier of Singapore and Southeast Asia titles but also passed the Advanced Sommelier Examination.
A Self-Taught Connoisseur: Ng’s approach to learning was self-driven. From studying on bus rides to conducting blind tastings at home, he immersed himself in learning about wine. He invested a significant portion of his salary in wines for tasting and furthering his knowledge.
The French Connection: Ng’s recent trip to Burgundy, France, brought him closer to his dream of producing his own wine. Engaging in the harvest at Château de Premeaux and experiencing pigéage at Domaine Jean-Marie Fourrier, he delved deeper into the practical aspects of winemaking.
Future Aspirations: With his eyes set on becoming a master sommelier and winning the Best Sommelier of the World competition, Ng contemplates his next steps. His dream extends beyond accolades, envisioning a bistro in Dijon, Burgundy, and starting his own boutique wine bar.
Beyond Wine: In his personal life, Ng strives for a balance, sharing his passion with his girlfriend and experiencing moments of pure enjoyment with wine, devoid of professional analysis.
Mason Ng’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and dedication. His journey from a young enthusiast to an acclaimed sommelier is an inspiration, showcasing the transformative power of hard work and the pursuit of excellence in the world of wine.
READ MORE: